Most tired people immediately reach for caffeine as a boost to their energy throughout the day. Though the pros and cons of caffeine have been well documented throughout the years, we’re here to explain how caffeine affects your eyes. So grab a cup of (decaf) tea and read on for more.

What Is Caffeine?

Caffeine is a chemical found naturally in over 60 plants. It is considered a nervous system stimulant, giving the body a “jolt” of energy within 30-45 minutes after consumption. It is found is beverages such as coffee, tea, and energy drinks and even in foods, like chocolate.

How Caffeine Affects Your Eyes

As much as we love getting the boost of energy from caffeine, there are several ways how caffeine affects your eyes.

Increased Glaucoma Risks

According to a new study, people who consumer 3 or more cups of coffee each day increase their risk of developing certain types of glaucoma. However, the study couldn’t conclude that other sources of caffeine had the same results. Do you need to give up the cup of Joe? Not really. A cup or two daily won’t be enough to increase your risk, though it’s important to be aware of how much you’re consuming.

Blurry Vision

Though only in serious cases of potential caffeine overdose, blurred vision is usually the result of a blood sugar drop or rise. It’s important to keep a careful eye on sudden changes in your energy levels, as it could be indicative of another health issue. Caffeine overdoses, which can occur when over 1,000mg of caffeine are consumed within 24 hours, can also cause blurry vision. If you suspect a potential overdose, you should consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Twitchy Eyes

Have you ever experienced twitchy eyelids after drinking several cups of coffee? It’s definitely a side effect of consuming too much caffeine. Avoid the twitch by avoiding too much caffeine.

We hope today’s blog on how caffeine affects your eyes gave you an awakening jolt! Treat your eyes (and the rest of your body) well by taking your caffeine in moderation.